Narrabri Old Gaol Museum is filled with fascinating memorabilia gathered from locally and much further afield and many of the exhibits depicting life of 100 and more, years ago.
One of the items which could be perhaps revived today, and is on display at the museum, is an electric magneto machine designed to help sufferers of nervous and other disease.
The machine dating from the turn of last century, was quite simple to use, according to the instructions on the box, but there is no record of its effectiveness.
Basically, an electric shock was delivered to the patient.
The benefit may have been to help them remember whatever pain their illness may have put them in.
It could have been a lot worse, as illustrated by the electric shock.
“Apply the copper tube ends of the machine to whatever part of the patient it is desirable to pass the electric current,” advises the instructions.
“It is less unpleasant for the patient if wet pads are applied first,” the note adds thoughtfully.
The doctor then winds the machine up to build an electric charge and flicks a switch.
Apparently, a range of conditions could be treat with the electric magneto.
You can see this item and many others at the museum on the corner of Barwan and Bowen Streets, Narrabri.
The museum is open Wednesday 10am-2pm and Saturday 9am-1pm.
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